Link Up was established in 2012 without a set model or framework, just the premise that the ingredients for lasting change already lie in our communities in the shape of the passion, strengths, skills, knowledge and interests of local people, and when people are connected and energised, radical change can and does happen.
After 12 years we have successfully embedded and empowered Link Up in the community.
Our embedded local workers supported communities to establish activities local people want (e.g. gardening, cooking, social, arts, exercise, parent & toddler, and youth groups). Through active involvement, people form supportive relationships. And by acquiring and sharing new skills, trust and reciprocity grow, building confidence and self-esteem.
These fundamentals are transformational, building resilience and inspiring people to create a better future for themselves, family and community: improving health & wellbeing; creating a brighter financial future by re-engagement with employment, skills training and education; and, becoming active citizens looking out for the welfare of their community. Through this, local people are front and centre in determining how to tackle the issues that matter to them.
Over the past 12 years we have shared valuable insights on what our evaluation and learning has told us about what works and what doesn’t.
Our key learnings have been:
Andrew is a passionate advocate for the ability of people and communities to do big things and change society for the better. He leads on our Link Up programme where his enthusiasm for unlocking the potential in people, partnerships and innovative ideas has helped shape not just Link Up but the community development landscape in....
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Read MoreWe would welcome your thoughts on the Link Up Programme and the conclusions we point to above. If you want to share these and/or discuss them with us, please contact Andrew Magowan at andrewm@inspiringscotland.org.uk.
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